APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTING UREA DEPOSIT FORMATION

摘要

An apparatus for detecting urea deposits in an exhaust pipe (12) of an internal combustion engine (10) is provided, where the urea is introduced into the exhaust pipe (12) in an aqueous urea solution via a nozzle (18). The apparatus comprises at least one radiation receiver (16) which, in use, is located within the exhaust pipe (12) downstream of the nozzle (18). The apparatus further comprises an electronic control unit (30) in communication with the receiver (16), wherein the receiver (16) communicates radiation data to the control unit which allows the control unit to establish whether deposits have formed within the exhaust pipe (12). A control valve (22) is also provided which controls flow of the solution to the nozzle (18) in response to signals from the control unit (30). A method of detecting urea deposits in an exhaust pipe of an internal combustion engine is also provided, as is an automotive vehicle incorporating the aforementioned apparatus.